Tale of the Tiger numbers: No. 7

Wayne Walsh played in three Grand Finals for two premierships in 66 games for Richmond

In a special holiday season series, richmondfc.com.au is asking Tiger fans to select the best player to have worn each of the most significant guernsey numbers in the Club’s history. To assist in your quest, we have profiled those players who have racked up a minimum of 50 games in the number. The game totals and years listed relate to those played while wearing the specific number, not total Richmond career numbers. Today, we focus on No. 7.

No. 7

Allan Cooke – 116 games, 1949-1958

Strongly-built ruckman, who worked his way up through the ranks at Richmond and became a consistent performer at senior level throughout what was a lean decade for the Club. Highly regarded for his team-first attitude.

Mick Malthouse – 99 games, 1978-1983

Tough, uncompromising back pocket, with a fierce desire to succeed. Established himself as a permanent member of the Tigers’ defence after moving from St Kilda. A strong mark, good kick and popular clubman. Played an important role in Richmond’s 1980 premiership year.

Harry Weidner – 94 games, 1927-1932

Quick, elusive left-foot half-forward with good goal sense. Was a member of the Tigers’ losing Grand Final teams in 1927, 1928 and 1929, and then unfortunately missed the 1930 premiership due to a leg injury.

Ashley Prescott – 90 games, 1993-1998

An athletic player with a strong work ethic. Found his niche in Richmond’s line-up as a midfield tagger. Consistently managed to shut down the opposition’s best midfielders, which made him an integral member of the Tigers’ team.

Nathan Brown – 82 games, 2004-2009

Silky-skilled medium-sized forward, who was lured by Richmond from the Western Bulldogs in a blaze of publicity. Was in outstanding form throughout the first nine rounds of the 2005 season, with more than 30 goals to his credit, until suffering a broken leg in a horrific incident during the Round 10 clash with Melbourne at Etihad Stadium. Was sidelined for the remainder of the year and was never the same player again, although he did manage to show glimpses of his immense talent at times.

Fred Cook – 81 games, 1944-1949

Half-back, who was a handy player throughout his time at Richmond. Was a member of the Tigers’ 1944 Grand Final side.

Ray Martin – 81 games, 1936-1940

Champion rover, who combined a rugged, fearless approach with excellent all-round skills. Formed part of a famous, powerful Richmond ruck combination with Percy Bentley and Jack Dyer. Was a member of the Tigers’ 1932 and 1934 premiership teams, as well as the 1933 and 1940 Grand Final sides. Won the Club’s Best and Fairest in 1934 and 1935.

Michael Mitchell – 81 games, 1987-1991

A wingman/half-forward, who was one of the quickest players in Richmond’s history. Won the Sandover Medal while playing for WAFL club Claremont before joining the Tigers. Thrilled Richmond fans with his ability to kick inspirational running goals, as well as his aerial exploits. Had a huge leap on him for a player so small in stature. Captured both the competition’s Goal of the Year and Mark of the Year in 1990.

Eric Moore – 75 games, 1966-1971

Recruited to Richmond from Victorian country club Coleraine, where he had started his senior career at just 15 years of age. Was in and out of the Tigers’ senior side until 1969, when he hit his straps playing at full-forward. Kicked six goals in the ’69 first-semi demolition of Geelong, four in the preliminary final win against Collingwood, and two in the Grand Final triumph over Carlton. A strong, courageous player with good skills.

Wayne Walsh – 66 games, 1972-1975

Started his league career with Richmond, before being traded to South Melbourne due to lack of opportunity. Became a star defender with the Swans until an argument with legendary coach Norm Smith resulted on him walking out and rejoining the Tigers. Went on to play as a wingman in the 1972 Grand Final and 1973-1974 premierships with Richmond. A dashing player, who was strong overhead, a good kick, tough, and thrived in big-occasion games.

Ernie Taylor – 58 games, 1920-1926

Back pocket/half-back renowned as a strong, reliable player. Was a member of the Tigers’ 1920 and 1921 premiership sides, but was forced into a premature retirement from league football due to injury.

Peter Francis – 52 games, 1984-1986

A wingman/half-back/ruck-rover, who started his league career at Carlton. One of the Blues’ best in their 1979 Grand Final win, but two years later was playing with Fitzroy. He then joined Richmond in 1984 and was a solid contributor for the Tigers, winning plenty of ball and using it effectively.